Spatial 1.1.0 Theme Update

Back to Blog

This update arrived immediately after Novara 1.1.0 and focused on “post WordPress.com review” improvements, incorporating feedback from WordPress.com’s Theminator, David A. Kennedy.

Bug Fixes

Elongated Down Arrow Removal

The theme’s elongated arrow icon appeared disconnected on certain browsers, particularly Safari on iOS. Rather than pursue complex browser-specific solutions, the developers simplified the arrow to its original size.

PHP Notices Resolution

The spatial_fonts_url() function contained references to non-existent font variables, generating PHP notices. The fix improved server error log cleanliness and represents a reminder to develop with WP_DEBUG enabled.

HTML Structure Correction

An erroneous closing </span> tag existed in the author display function within inc/template-tags.php. Though browsers typically self-correct such errors, the fix prevents potential compatibility issues.

Centering Adjustments

Two previously unstyled elements — the “Comments Closed” notice and Jetpack comment form — were repositioned to center alignment.

Enhancements

Jetpack Integration

The update introduced support for Jetpack’s Content Options module, enabling control over categories, tags, author information, and featured image display across various page types.

Post navigation links expanded from text-only clickable areas to full-box clickability, enhancing usability on touch devices.

The primary menu location’s label changed from “Primary” to “Slide Out Menu” to better communicate its actual positioning.

Accessibility Improvements

Slider navigation buttons received hidden screen reader text (“Previous Slide” and “Next Slide”) for enhanced accessibility.

International Language Support

The update included translations for German, Persian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Romanian.